Cast revealed for show inspired by Tupac songs

FILE - This 1993 file photo originally provided by Columbia Pictures shows rap musician Tupac Shakur is shown in a scene from, "Poetic Justice." The upcoming Broadway musical inspired by Tupac Shakur songs will star Saul Williams, the poet and singer best known for the film “Slam.” Producers said this week that the rest of the cast of "Holler If Ya Hear Me" will include Tonya Pinkins, Christopher Jackson, Saycon Sengbloh, Ben Thompson and John Earl Jelks. (AP Photo/Columbia Pictures, file)

NEW YORK (AP) — The upcoming Broadway musical inspired by Tupac Shakur songs will star Saul Williams, the poet and singer best known for the film "Slam."

Producers said this week the rest of the cast of "Holler If Ya Hear Me" will include Tonya Pinkins, Christopher Jackson, Saycon Sengbloh, Ben Thompson and John Earl Jelks.

The musical is not a biography of Shakur but uses his songs to explore the story of two friends who live in a low-income neighborhood in the Midwest. It will feature "California Love," ''Keep Ya Head Up," and "Me Against the World."

The musical has a story by Todd Kreidler, who was a dramaturge for "Radio Golf," and is directed by Kenny Leon. It begins performances May 29 and will open June 19 at the Palace Theatre.